Hardware push Harrisburg into Semi-finals

Photo: Jamiel Hardware in action for Harrisburg Islanders (photo supplied by Hardware)

The 2010 Manning Cup Final in 2010 was a memorable day for many but for Jamiel Hardware and Bridgeport High, it was a day of disappointment. However, Hardware has used that disappointment as motivation and has now moved on to play in the USL Pro league in America for the Harrisburg Islanders.

Before the season began this year Hardware set personal goals he wanted to achieve for the new season. “I wanted to be the starting man at midfield to create assists and score goals, however that never materialized. I then made an additional goal, this is to work harder than anyone else in the team, remain focused and make use of any chance I got”.

As the regular season progressed the diminutive midfielder scored 3 goals and played an important part in helping his team reach the playoff round. Last Saturday, Harrisburg played against the regular season champions Orlando City. Hardware was named Jefferson’s College MVP in 2012 and all of Jefferson’s College was there to support him. The midfielder did not leave his supporters disappointed as he made a magisterial pass which was lashed home by his striker, resulting in the game’s winning goal. Hardware hopes he can bring that same success to the Harrisburg Islanders come next week in the semi-finals against Richmond Kickers .

Yardie Sports: “What was your personal aim before the start of the new season and what would be the most significant thing you would want to see happen at the end?”

Hardware: “The first aim was just to start in the team and that never really happen so I worked harder and take my chances when they come. Now that we are in the playoffs, I would really want to help my team (Harrisburg) win the championships.”

Yardie Sports : “Do you think you have done enough to get a Senior national call up?”

Hardware: “ Yes I would think I have done enough to get a call up. I was even invited to play against MlS team Philadelphia Union which I scored 2 goals , and that helped me to push my way into the starting lineup of my team. If the national team comes calling then it would be an honour to wear my country’s colours and do my utmost best”.

Yardie Sports : “What is the aim for your career?”

Hardware: “ I would like to play next year in the MLS, France, Denmark or even going back to Sweden”

Yardie Sports: “Wouldn’t the MLS, NPower Championship or even the BPL be a better move?”

Hardware: “ Yes that would be the ultimate goal, however, everything takes time and I just have to be patient and keep on working. Also it is imperative that my work don’t go unnoticed and I must say thank you to Yardie Sports for that keeping Jamaicans in tune with all aspects of sports. Big Up”